News Release

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Bicyclist killed on the Street

Los Angeles: A man was killed early Sunday morning after being hit by a car while riding his bicycle.

On Sunday, April 19, 2009, at around 1:45 a.m., 22-year-old Alejandro Hidalgo was driving a 2003 Mitsubishi Galant south in the 1200 block of North Glendale Boulevard, north of Park Street when he hit the victim riding his ten speed bicycle south on Glendale Boulevard. Mr. Hidalgo left the scene without identifying himself or rendering aid as required by law.

A witness was able to write down the vehicle’s license plate number as it was leaving. Detectives conducted a follow up to the registered owner’s residence in the 8700 block of Katherine Avenue in Panorama City, and took Hidalgo into custody at around 3:30 a.m. A passenger riding with Hidalgo was also subsequently located, questioned and released. Based on a statement provided by the passenger, and additional evidence, Detectives believe that Hidalgo was driving under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.

Hidalgo was arrested for Gross Vehicular Manslaughter and is being held on $100,000 dollars bail.

The victim, a 44-year-old resident of Los Angeles was pronounced dead at scene. The victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of family members.

Los Angeles Police Department Central Traffic Division detectives are handling the investigation. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Detectives Josephine Mapson or Felix Padilla at 213-972-1825. During off-hours, calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247). Callers may also text “Crimes” with a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on Web tips. When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with “LAPD.” Tipsters may remain anonymous.